Jeanne’s Story
Jeanne Fowler
Founder
Big Family of Michigan was founded in 2002 by Jeanne Fowler, a woman whose compassion and determination continue to inspire everything we do today.
As a child, Jeanne never had a birthday party of her own. That experience shaped her vision for our very first program, Birthday in a Bag — a simple idea with a powerful impact. Jeanne filled bags with cake mix, frosting, decorations, and party essentials so foster children could celebrate their special day with dignity and joy. What began as one act of kindness grew into a grassroots nonprofit serving foster youth and grandfamilies across Michigan.
Jeanne’s Vision
Jeanne believed that no child should ever feel forgotten. Her heart was especially drawn to foster youth and to grandparents raising grandchildren, families who often received little assistance but carried enormous responsibilities.
Her vision expanded beyond birthdays to include programs that support children and young adults through every stage of life — from school supplies and holiday gifts to household essentials for those “aging out” of foster care.
Remembering Jeanne Fowler
Our beloved founder, Jeanne Fowler, passed away unexpectedly on September 7, 2015. Though her passing was a great loss to all who knew her, her compassion and commitment to Michigan’s foster children continue to guide our work every day.
Jeanne lived a life of open-armed generosity, love, and care for foster youth — holding each of them close to her heart. She is remembered not only by Big Family of Michigan’s volunteers and supporters, but also by the countless children and families whose lives she touched.
Although Michigan’s foster children and the agencies who serve them lost one of their greatest champions, Jeanne’s spirit lives on through the organization she founded and nurtured. Her vision — to ensure no child is forgotten — continues to inspire everything we do.